San Esteban Preps for G2 Sanitation Validation; LGU Rallies for Clean, Open Defecation-Free Municipality

The Local Government Unit of San Esteban conducted a preparatory meeting for the upcoming validation of G2 (Basic Sanitation Status), aimed at ensuring that the municipality continues to uphold proper sanitation and public health standards. G2 refers to the condition wherein households, schools, child development centers, and public institutional facilities have functional sanitary toilets, communities properly manage animal excreta and solid waste disposal, and maintain the practice that open defecation is unacceptable. The meeting was spearheaded by the Rural Sanitary Inspector under the supervision of the Municipal Health Officer, with the full support and leadership of Municipal Mayor Hon. Maria Divina Gracia Elaydo-Etalin,MD,MPA,MPH and Municipal Vice Mayor Hon. Ray M. Elaydo II,MPA. The initiative highlights the commitment of LGU San Esteban in promoting a clean, healthy, and safe environment for all constituents.

DA-RFO 1 Strengthens Ties with San Esteban; Coordinators Pay Courtesy Call to Mayor Elaydo-Etalin

In a bid to fortify local agricultural development and ensure the seamless execution of livelihood programs, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 1 (DA-RFO 1) paid a courtesy call to Municipal Mayor Hon. Maria Divina Gracia Elaydo-Etalin, MD, MPA, MPH, at the Municipal Hall. The DA-RFO 1 delegation was led by Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Coordinators Fridlee Rodriguez and Jessend Gannad. Syncing Strategies for Local Farmers The primary objective of the meeting was to bolster the coordination and partnership between the regional agriculture office and the Local Government Unit (LGU). Both parties discussed ongoing and upcoming interventions designed to uplift marginalized farmers and fisherfolk in the municipality. According to the SAAD coordinators, maintaining an open channel with local chief executives is vital for the sustainability of agricultural projects. The dialogue focused on: A Shared Commitment to Food Security Mayor Elaydo-Etalin expressed her full support for the DA-RFO 1’s initiatives, emphasizing that agriculture remains a cornerstone of the municipality’s economic growth. “Our collaboration with the Department of Agriculture is essential in transforming our local farming communities. By working closely together, we ensure that government interventions are timely, effective, and directly beneficial to the grassroots sector,” the Mayor stated. With reinforced ties between the DA-RFO 1 and the LGU, San Esteban is poised to see a more robust implementation of agricultural programs aimed at poverty reduction and long-term food security.

SAN ESTEBAN CELEBRATES HERITAGE AND HOPE IN THE 2026 KABAYBAYAN FESTIVAL

SAN ESTEBAN, ILOCOS SUR – The shoreline of San Esteban transformed into a vibrant kaleidoscope of culture and tradition as the municipality officially kicked off the 2026 Kabaybayan Festival. The annual celebration, which honors the town’s deep-rooted connection to the sea and its resilient spirit, drew thousands of residents and tourists to the historic Bateria district. Honoring the “Town of Stone” This year’s theme highlights the unique geological and spiritual identity of San Esteban. The festival opened with a grand civic parade featuring colorful floats inspired by the town’s famous landmarks, including the Moro Watchtower (Bateria) and the legendary “Stone from Heaven” meteorite shrine. “The Kabaybayan Festival is more than just a celebration; it is a testament to our history as guards of the coast,” said local organizers. The name itself reflects the community’s life “by the shore” (baybay), celebrating the bounty of the West Philippine Sea that has sustained the town for generations. Festival Highlights The week-long festivities featured a variety of events designed to showcase both local talent and the town’s natural beauty: A Boost for Local Tourism The festival serves as a major pillar for the 2nd District’s tourism circuit. Visitors were encouraged to explore the newly promoted Dive Sites and the historic Liberation Landing Site, where Allied forces once stood during the closing days of World War II. As the sun set behind the silhouette of the Virgin Mary atop the celestial rock, the opening day concluded with a spectacular fireworks display over the bay, signaling another year of prosperity and unity for the people of San Esteban.

San Esteban World War II Wreck

For adventure seekers and history buffs alike, the waters of San Esteban, Ilocos Sur, hold a secret beneath the waves. While the town is famous for its coastal watchtower and “heavenly” grotto, its most thrilling attraction lies in the depths of the West Philippine Sea: the San Esteban World War II Wreck. The History: A Relic of the Great War The waters of Ilocos Sur were a strategic theater during the closing years of World War II. As the USAFIP-NL (United States Armed Forces in the Philippines – Northern Luzon) and local guerrillas pushed to liberate the north, several Japanese supply ships and transport vessels were intercepted by Allied air and sea power. The Dive Site: Exploring the Depths San Esteban is becoming a premier destination for Scuba Diving in Northern Luzon because of this wreck. The Landing Site: Liberation History The shoreline near the dive site is equally historic. Known as the San Esteban Landing Site, this stretch of beach was used by liberating forces and local resistance groups to receive supplies and coordinate movements against the retreating Japanese forces in the mountains of Ilocos. Today, it is a peaceful area, often used by local fishermen, but a small plaque or local markers often remind visitors of the blood and grit that once defined this coast. How to Get There & Dive If you are coming from Candon City or Vigan, the dive site is easily accessible via the San Esteban town proper. Traveler’s Tip: Because of the depth and the potential for currents, this is generally considered an Advanced Open Water dive. However, even if you aren’t a diver, visiting the landing site at sunset offers a poignant moment to reflect on the history resting just beneath the horizon.

GROTO OF SAN ESTEBAN

In the quiet coastal town of San Esteban, Ilocos Sur, a unique spiritual landmark stands against the backdrop of the West Philippine Sea. Known locally as the Grotto of San Esteban, this site features a statue of the Virgin Mary perched atop a massive, dark rock that has long been the subject of local legend. The “Stone from Heaven” According to local folklore, the great rock upon which the image of Mama Mary stands is not a natural coastal formation but a meteorite—a “stone from heaven” that fell to earth generations ago. Spiritual Significance and History San Esteban has a deep connection to its landscape; even its name is rooted in the “abundance of stones” found along its coastal mountains. How to Get There The Grotto is located along the scenic coastline of San Esteban, near the popular Bateria Watchtower. Traveler’s Note To truly experience the magic of the “Stone from Heaven,” visit during the late afternoon. As the sun dips below the horizon, the grotto becomes one of the most photographed and serene spots in Ilocos Sur, perfectly blending the town’s mysterious legends with its deep-seated faith.

SAN ESTEBAN’S MORO WATCHTOWER

Standing guard over the serene coastline of Ilocos Sur, the San Esteban Moro Watchtower (locally known as Bateria) is a silent witness to centuries of maritime history. While often overshadowed by the larger belfries of Vigan or Bantay, this coral-stone sentinel offers a raw, rugged beauty that is a must-visit for any traveler exploring the 2nd District. The Sentinel of the Sea: A Brief History The San Esteban Watchtower is one of the many coastal fortifications built along the Ilocos coastline during the Spanish Colonial Era. The Purpose: Defense and Early Warning The name “Moro Watchtower” stems from its primary function: guarding against pirate raids. During the Spanish period, “Moro” pirates from the southern seas would often raid northern coastal towns for supplies and captives. What to Expect Today Unlike the restored towers in other provinces, the San Esteban Bateria retains a weathered, authentic charm. How to Get There San Esteban is conveniently located along the MacArthur Highway, making it an easy pitstop between Candon City and Vigan. Traveler’s Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to the San Esteban Fish Sanctuary or the nearby Apatot Beach. Since you’re in the area, don’t forget to try the local niniyog or other delicacies San Esteban is known for!